This is not a market-moving report. The data is basically in line with expectations.
The agency said: “The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index declined 0.6
points in October to 98.2 but remained above its 52-year average of 98.
The Uncertainty Index fell 12 points from September to 88, the lowest
reading of this year.“
Bill Dunkelberg, NFIB Chief Economist, added: “Optimism among small businesses declined slightly in October as owners
report lower sales and reduced profits. Additionally, many firms are
still navigating a labor shortage and want to hire but are having
difficulty doing so, with labor quality being the top issue for Main
Street.”